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Pioneering African Americans

Age Level: 10–14 Grade Level: 5–9

While the history of African Americans has been
marked by social, political, and economic oppression, there have also been a
number of brilliant men and women of color who succeeded in spite of these
tremendous obstacles. Whether it was scientific discovery, striking a blow for
civil rights, entertaining us through the arts, or putting their lives on the
line in our country’s military, these pioneers left lasting legacies. Young
readers will get a glimpse into the lives of truly extraordinary men and women,
and learn more about the cultural impact of both their accomplishments and their
sacrifices. • Highlights the often unheralded and
little-known pioneering achievements of African Americans across a broad
spectrum of professional and political endeavor•
Capsule biographies that are accessible, engaging, and illuminating will inspire
the reader to explore certain figures in greater depth
• Important addition to any library's collection of multicultural
content• Valuable and relevant, since many educators are
currently discussing the importance of readers ""seeing themselves"" reflected
in the books they read

Despite inequality of access to education, relentless discrimination, and a starkly segregated society, African American artists and writers have made landmark contributions to American art and literature...Read More

From the top of Everest to the deepest recesses of previously unexplored caves, from the heart of the sea to the far reaches of space, African American explorers and adventurers have helped chart the unknown, push the boundaries of the frontier, scale the heights, and shoot for the stars...Read More

From soil-preserving crop rotation methods and innovative beauty products to the filaments that made electric light bulbs possible and laser probes that correct cataracts, African American inventors and scientists have revolutionized daily life in the modern world...Read More

Imagine a world in which gospel, the blues, jazz, R&B, and rock 'n' roll didn't exist. These indigenous American musical forms are the product of, and a moving expression of the African American experience...Read More

Through centuries of suffering, slavery, inequality, discrimination, segregation, and racist violence, African Americans have endured, resisted, fought, and, increasingly over time, won many battles. These victories were propelled by a groundswell of grassroots action, but they were also motivated and organized by courageous and inspirational leadership...Read More

Though often fighting for a country that did not recognize their rights or even their humanity, African Americans have fought courageously in every American war. Even though they often knew they would return to civilian lives of limited opportunities and unequal treatment, they served their nation with conviction and distinction...Read More